“Bail is entirely free of charge,” the Commission said, warning that no court official or law enforcement officer is authorised to demand or accept payment for bail.
The Adamawa State Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has warned judges, magistrates, court staff and law enforcement officers against demanding money as a condition for granting bail.
The Commission said bail is free of charge and threatened immediate suspension and disciplinary action against any judicial officer or staff member found violating the directive.
In a circular dated August 24, 2026, with reference number ADS/JSC/S63/VOL.1/83, the Commission stated that no judge, magistrate or judicial staff member should attach a direct monetary condition to the granting of bail.
«“Bail is entirely free of charge,” the Commission said, warning that no court official or law enforcement officer is authorised to demand or accept payment for bail.»
The JSC urged judicial officers, court employees and members of the public to comply with the directive and report violations.
The warning was contained in the same circular in which the Commission announced the promotion of 458 eligible personnel across various divisions of the state judiciary.
The promotions were approved at the Commission’s 187th meeting, chaired by the Chief Judge of Adamawa State and Chairman of the JSC, Justice Hafsat Abdulrahman.
Hundreds of judicial staff promoted
The Magistrates Division recorded the promotion of 42 magistrates, 26 administrative and executive officers and confidential secretaries, and 59 registrars.
In the Area Court Division, 114 Area Court judges and members, 26 administrative and executive officers, and 146 registrars were promoted.
The Sharia Court of Appeal approved the promotion of 22 administrative, executive, confidential secretaries and registrars, while 23 personnel in similar categories were promoted at the Customary Court of Appeal.
The Commission said the measures were part of its commitment to strengthening the judiciary, promoting staff welfare and ensuring that justice remains accessible to all.
It also reiterated that the judicial system must operate with integrity and without financial barriers for members of the public seeking justice.
